Ethanol: Properties, Uses & Industrial Specifications
Ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol or industrial alcohol, is a widely used organic compound with the chemical formula C₂H₆O and CAS number 64-17-5. This clear, colorless, volatile liquid serves the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, chemical, food-processing, coating, and energy industries.
Its ability to mix with water, dissolve many compounds, and originate from renewable feedstocks makes it valuable in industrial formulations and biofuel production. The required grade and purity depend on the intended application and applicable regulations.
Ethanol at a Glance
This versatile alcohol is used as a solvent, extraction agent, chemical feedstock, and fuel component. Buyers should select a grade that meets their technical specifications and intended use.
What Is Ethanol?
Ethyl alcohol can be produced through the fermentation of sugars and starches from agricultural materials or through petrochemical processes. Its molecular structure allows it to mix completely with water and interact with many organic compounds.
Commercial production generally falls into two categories:
- Bioethanol: Produced from renewable feedstocks such as corn, sugarcane, and other sugar- or starch-containing crops.
- Synthetic ethanol: Produced through petrochemical routes, commonly involving the hydration of ethylene.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Ethanol |
| Chemical Name | Ethyl Alcohol |
| CAS Number | 64-17-5 |
| Molecular Formula | C₂H₆O |
| Molecular Weight | 46.07 g/mol |
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid |
| Commercial Purity | Commonly 96% to 99.9%, depending on grade |
| Density at 20°C | Approximately 0.789 g/cm³ for pure ethanol |
| Boiling Point | Approximately 78.37°C at atmospheric pressure |
| Melting Point | Approximately −114.1°C |
| Flash Point | Approximately 13°C, depending on test method |
| Water Solubility | Completely miscible |
Values are typical reference data. Actual specifications vary with purity, water content, and product grade. Always verify the supplier’s Certificate of Analysis (CoA) and Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
Key Properties
- High solvent capacity for many organic substances
- Complete miscibility with water
- Volatility suitable for selected formulations
- Use in approved disinfectant formulations
- Availability from renewable or petrochemical feedstocks
- Commercial grades tailored to different applications
Industrial Applications
Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare
High-purity grades are used in pharmaceutical formulations, extraction processes, and disinfectant products when permitted by relevant standards. Purity requirements depend on the formulation and intended use.
Cosmetics and Personal Care
The compound acts as a solvent or carrier in perfumes, colognes, sprays, lotions, and selected personal-care products. Formulators select the appropriate grade according to product specifications and local regulations.
- Perfumes and colognes
- Cosmetic sprays
- Selected hygiene products
- Hand-sanitizing formulations
Food Processing and Extraction
Food-grade material may be used to extract flavor compounds, essential oils, and other permitted ingredients. Only grades that comply with applicable food regulations should be used for food-related applications.
Paints, Coatings, and Resins
In selected formulations, this alcohol serves as a solvent or processing aid. Compatibility depends on the resin system, formulation design, and required evaporation profile.
Chemical Manufacturing
It is used as a feedstock or intermediate in the production of several chemicals, including ethyl acetate, ethylene, and diethyl ether. For related solvent options, see our Ethyl Acetate product page.
Fuel and Energy
Bioethanol is blended with gasoline in many markets to support fuel requirements and reduce reliance on petroleum-derived components. Environmental benefits depend on the feedstock, production process, transport, and fuel-use conditions.
Benefits and Selection Considerations
- Versatile solvent for suitable industrial formulations
- Can be produced from renewable feedstocks
- Useful in extraction and chemical manufacturing
- Available in grades for different technical requirements
- Suitable for selected applications where rapid evaporation is desirable
Before purchasing, confirm the required purity, water content, denaturant status, applicable regulatory standard, and intended use. Not every industrial grade is suitable for pharmaceutical, cosmetic, or food applications.
Global Market Overview
Demand is influenced by fuel blending, pharmaceutical manufacturing, personal-care products, chemical processing, and industrial solvent consumption. The United States, Brazil, China, and India are important participants in global production and consumption, although market conditions vary by sector and year.
Packaging and Storage
Depending on grade and supplier, common bulk packaging options include drums, intermediate bulk containers (IBCs), and chemical tankers.
- Store in tightly closed, compatible containers.
- Use a cool, dry, well-ventilated storage area.
- Keep away from flames, sparks, hot surfaces, and other ignition sources.
- Use appropriate grounding and bonding procedures during transfer where required.
- Follow the supplier’s SDS and local requirements for flammable liquids.
Explore Products and Contact the Supplier
Visit the AasadChimie product catalog to explore available chemical products. For grade details, specifications, packaging options, and supply inquiries, use the contact page.
You can also browse the chemical articles and industry resources for additional technical information.
International Sources and References
- PubChem – Ethanol
- European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)
- NIOSH – Occupational Safety and Health Resources
- U.S. Department of Energy
- International Energy Agency (IEA)
What is ethanol?
Ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C₂H₆O and CAS number 64-17-5. It is widely used as an industrial solvent, chemical feedstock, extraction agent, and fuel component.
What are the main industrial uses of ethanol?
It is used in pharmaceutical manufacturing, cosmetics, personal-care products, food extraction, paints, coatings, chemical production, disinfectants, and biofuel applications.
What is the chemical formula of ethanol?
The chemical formula is C₂H₆O, and its molecular weight is approximately 46.07 g/mol.
What are the physical properties of ethanol?
Ethanol is a clear, colorless, volatile liquid. Pure ethanol has a density of approximately 0.789 g/cm³ at 20°C and a boiling point of approximately 78.37°C at atmospheric pressure.
What is the difference between bioethanol and synthetic ethanol?
Bioethanol is produced through the fermentation of renewable feedstocks such as sugarcane and corn. Synthetic ethanol is commonly manufactured through petrochemical processes involving ethylene. Both forms can have different grades and purity levels.
Is ethanol soluble in water?
Yes. Ethanol is completely miscible with water, making it useful in formulations that require both water and organic ingredients.
What purity grades are available for industrial ethanol?
Commercial grades vary by application and supplier. Common purity levels include approximately 96% and higher-purity grades approaching 99.9%. Buyers should confirm the exact concentration, water content, and denaturant status before ordering.
Is ethanol flammable?
Yes. Ethanol is a highly flammable liquid and produces vapors that can ignite near flames, sparks, or hot surfaces. Appropriate ventilation, compatible storage containers, and fire-safety precautions are essential.
How should ethanol be stored?
Store it in tightly closed, compatible containers in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat and ignition sources. Follow the supplier's Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and applicable regulations for flammable liquids.
What should buyers consider when purchasing ethanol?
Buyers should verify purity, intended application, water content, denaturant status, packaging, batch consistency, and regulatory compliance. A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) should be obtained from the supplier.